“Holding the Reins” by Paisley Hope is the first book in the Silver Pines Ranch series, and I am really glad its not a standalone!
This spicy small-town cowboy romance follows Cecilia “CeCe” Ashby, who returns to her family’s ranch in Laurel Creek, Kentucky, after escaping a toxic relationship. She finds herself reconnecting with Nash Carter, who is a hockey superstar, her brother’s best friend, and the local man everyone wants.
Both CeCe and Nash have good backstories that add depth to their characters. Nash’s transition from a sports career to ranch life and CeCe’s journey of healing from her last relationship have you rooting for the two of them from the start.
The story explores themes of healing, self-discovery, and forbidden romance as CeCe and Nash navigate their growing attraction despite their complicated pasts. And, the fact that hes CeCes brothers bestie makes it more compelling because it feels forbidden.
Holding the Reins really draws you in to ranch and family life, making you want to keep reading. Luckily this is just the first book in the series so you know all the little comments and background hints that sometimes feel like filler in a book are likely to grow into a new story.
I will admit I started the book thinking this was a nice romance that I’d lend to my nan. I’m glad I read to the end before getting her the ebook. Its a little spicy, in all the right ways – but probably not one for a family bookclub!
If you’re a fan of cowboy romance saddle up and get reading.
One More Chapter 